What’s Causing My Fever?

A fever, often accompanied with chills, isn’t one specific illness, it’s a common symptom of many different infections. Fevers are defined by an abnormal rise in the body’s temperature, which is sustained over an increased period of time. There’s no set-in-stone temperature that serves as a benchmark.

The body’s standard temperature is 98.6°, and most people agree 100° is a general low-grade fever. However, a healthy adult body may reach 100° throughout the course of the day through normal activities such as exercise and taking their prescribed medication. If a person’s temperature is over 100° for an extended period of time, though, they should consult a physician as it could indicate a more serious illness is at work.

Essentially, the body’s regulation of temperature is one of its many natural defense mechanisms, geared to keep the body working at a healthy rate. Fevers also allow us to know when we’re sick, as it alerts us and lets us know when it’s time to do something about it.

There are a number of illnesses that cause fevers. A rise in temperature could be something as innocuous as just exercise or even a harmless reaction to different foods or drinks. The following though, may result in actual fevers, which are sustained over long periods of time:

Reaction to vaccinations

Infections in the bladder, kidney, lung, throat or on the skin

Autoimmune diseases

Blood clots

Cancers

Skin inflammations

Reaction to drugs

Metabolic disorders

When Should I Call a Doctor?

Just because a fever may be the result of something serious – such as a viral infection or perhaps even an immunological disease – it’s best to at least consult a physician. Early diagnosis is the first step in fighting a potentially life-threatening illness.

Our board-certified physicians at AFC Urgent Care Phoenixville Urgent Care are available to treat patients of all ages 7 days a week. No appointment or referral is needed. We can diagnose what it is that is causing your fever, and then – if necessary – we can prescribe medications to treat it.